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New insights into how vascular networks form in fish brains

A study published in PLOS Biology reveals how the brain's vascular network forms in zebrafish, driven by blood flow and influenced by a protein called Rac1. The researchers found that vessel pruning occurs at loop-forming segments, leading to a simplified final form of the vasculature.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 14, 2012

Scientists aim to kill lung tumors

Researchers have identified a molecule, PDE4, that plays a key role in regulating the division of tumor cells and blood vessel growth in lung cancer. By blocking PDE4, they were able to significantly reduce tumor growth in laboratory experiments and mouse models.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalOncogene·DateMay 4, 2012

Making human textiles: Research team ups the ante with development of blood vessels woven from donor cells

A research team has developed a new technique for creating human textiles by weaving donor cells into blood vessels, promising to reduce production costs. The technology uses a combination of cultured cells and medical-textile-making techniques to create strong, biocompatible fibers that can be woven into various structures.

Antibody therapy prevents gastrointestinal damage following radiation exposure in mice

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered an antibody therapy that prevents lethal gastrointestinal damage following radiation exposure in mice. The treatment, which targets ceramide molecules, improved survival rates from 0% to 80% among mice exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 4, 2012

Research on flavanols and procyanidins provides new insights into how these phytonutrients may positively impact human health

Recent studies have demonstrated that flavanols and procyanidins play distinct roles in the human body, with flavanols being directly absorbed to exert cardiovascular benefits. In contrast, procyanidins are poorly absorbed and do not break down into flavanols, suggesting a need for more precise discrimination between these phytonutrients.

SourceCNC (UK) Ltd.·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 6, 2012

Researchers make living model of brain tumor

Researchers developed a three-dimensional living tissue model to study brain tumors and therapeutics, confirming iron-oxide nanoparticles can deliver tumstatin to blood vessels surrounding gliomas. The model allows for testing of agent characteristics in a realistic environment.

SourceBrown University·JournalTheranostics·DateFeb 16, 2012

A hormone ensures its future

Researchers discovered a crucial brain area, neuro-hypophysis, where biochemical commands are passed from the brain to the bloodstream. They found that oxytocin, known as the 'hormone of love,' plays a key role in the development of this structure, governing blood vessel formation during embryonic stages.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 2, 2011

Mechanical stress can help or hinder wound healing depending on time of application

A recent study found that applying mechanical forces to a wound site immediately after healing began can disrupt vascular growth and prevent bone healing. However, delaying the application of mechanical stress until later in the healing process can enhance functional bone regeneration through adaptive remodeling.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2011

Protecting the brain when energy runs low

A team of researchers has identified a way for the brain to protect itself when its energy supply is running low. The brain uses a protein called AMPK to reduce the firing frequency of electrical impulses, conserving energy. This discovery could lead to new treatments for patients at risk of stroke.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2011

Nourishing protein slows brain disease

A protein that promotes neuron growth and blood vessel formation appears to halt brain degeneration in a genetic disease, according to Northwestern University research published in Nature Medicine. The study suggests a link between aging and the development of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, a disease causing cerebellum degeneration.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 17, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: August 1, 2011

A recent study confirms that long-term azithromycin treatment is associated with increased infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria, a serious complication in cystic fibrosis patients. The team identified autophagy impairment as the underlying mechanism, highlighting a clinical danger of pharmacological blockade.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2011

'IDOLizing' low cholesterol

A team of researchers has identified the MYLIP protein as a potential new target for lowering LDL cholesterol levels. The study found that the N342S polymorphism is associated with high total cholesterol and increased LDL receptor degradation in humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 18, 2011

Penn study shows link between immune system suppression and blood vessel formation in tumors

Research from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that ovarian cancer cells secrete chemical signals suppressing the immune system while promoting blood vessel growth. This discovery could lead to more effective cancer treatments by combining therapies targeting angiogenesis with those blocking immunosuppressive T-reg cells.

Mass. General team identifies new class of antiangiogenesis drugs

Researchers discovered a natural plant compound that blocks vessel growth by interfering with cellular adhesion, found to reduce tumor growth and improve treatment outcomes in animal models. The compound, dehydro-alpha-lapachone, was identified as a potential new class of antiangiogenesis drugs targeting blood vessel formation.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2011

'Good' cholesterol function as important as its levels

Researchers have found that HDL cholesterol from patients with coronary artery disease has impaired anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessel-lining cells and fails to stimulate repair of the blood vessel lining. This study highlights the importance of considering not just abundance but also biological functions of HDL in preventing CAD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2011